Secrets from a natural beauty brand founder

by Natalie ThorogoodApril 28, 2017

Why did you decide to create Lust Minerals?

Growing up I suffered with breakouts which, as a teenage girl, made me self conscious and to use a Mineral makeup that didn't clog my skin and make my breakout worse wasn't really an option. The good quality minerals were expensive and without the knowledge back then I didn't realise that conventional makeup was in fact making my skin worse and clogged my pores.

I found my passion for makeup and beauty, so after school I pursed my dreams to study my international diplomas in beauty, makeup and spa therapy.

Being in the industry I found that so many girls were like me, coming into the salon asking for my help with their skin - little did they know using conventional chemical filled makeup products was infact worsening their skin.

Tell us about what inspired you

When dad became ill with cancer I was still a little naive as to the actual effects chemicals have on our body's and our skin, I knew chemicals in makeup clogged pores but that was as far as it really went. After hours upon hours of research I soon realised that cancer can be prevented and it doesn't just 'happen'; products and chemicals can all contribute to it. Although I considered myself and my family really healthy, the products I was applying and using in my everyday life were toxic, so from that point I started to clean chemicals out of my life. It was then that I put two passions together; to create a toxic free, chemical free range of makeup that was also affordable so every beautiful Australian could afford it. In the early days I had doubts - how can someone like myself create a range as big as I had in my dreams?

Dad being a business man at heart for his whole life, said "Darling, there's no dream too big- you've got this!"

What is your favourite product out of your range?

Wow! There's too many. I'd have to say theBB Cream Foundation. It's designed for mature skins and acne prone skins. Packed full of Witch Hazel, Rose and Vitamins which makes it perfect for not only hydrating our skin but also calming inflamed skins.

What are your go to me-time rituals? Grabbing a coffee down the beach and just watching the water is a favourite of mine. I also try to squeeze in a bath (on my own) using my favourite soaks fromSoak Societyat least once a week

What advice do you have for people who are unsure about how to look after their skin?

The most absorbent part of the body is our skin and it is also the largest organ. Using toxic free skin care and makeup products is so important to not only nourish and protect our skin, but to also prevent our bodies from absorbing 100's of different chemicals. Always cleanse morning and night, exfoliate 1-2 times per week and also moisturise to rehydrate your skin after cleansing and before applying your favourite Mineral makeup.

What does a regular day look like for you?

My days are a little different these days since having my 8 month old little boy- my alarm is set for 3:44am daily to squeeze in a quick PT session before my busy day ahead. I always make my favourite green smoothie for brekky, then I'm straight into responding to emails and packing orders ready for our first courier. People think I'm crazy getting up so early, but I find I'm 100% more focused when I get up and get my body moving.